Reflections

In my Reiki practice, my clients experience a level of relaxation that they did not realize was achievable.After a few sessions, the majority ask, “How do I keep this feeling of relaxation and focus going before I see you again?”My answer is always, “meditation”.

Just mentioning meditation leads to eye rolls and statements of busyness, too many thoughts, wandering minds, anxiety and flat out “I can’t do that!” claims.I shrug and offer a tip or two. Often times they seek more guidance. So, to help all of us along the meditation path, let’s dig a little deeper into how to incorporate meditation into your life.

You have heard the benefits of meditation before but it is worth another mention. Meditation lowers blood pressure, lessens anxiety, improves circulation, decreases stress and the list goes on.My experience with meditation is that I am better focused, more relaxed to handle everyday stresses, sleep better and in just a better place than when I don’t meditate. Sometimes it is just difficult to articulate how great I feel when I give myself mediation time.When I let go of meditation and let busyness take over, I feel all of the feels of being off - constipation, poor sleep, irritable, littles things overwhelm me and I simply feel don’t feel great.

Myths about meditation often keep people away.Let go of any thoughts you have about meditation and simply start here.My dear friends at Chrysalis in Arlington, MA, are offering a meditation group via Facebook beginning October 2nd through December 29th.Join me here as I welcome the gift of 10 minutes for myself every morning in a supportive community with Vanessa and Denise.

As you decide to commit just 10 minutes a day for yourself in meditation, think about finding a spot that is comfortable, accessible at your time of meditation (mornings are ideal), relatively quiet (headphones are great for meditation) and most importantly, a spot that you love.Following are some basic guidelines to get your started.

find a comfortable spot to sit - in a chair, on the couch - free from distractions

close your eyes

take a few deep cleansing breaths and then breath naturally with no effort

focus on your breath, the rise and fall, the in and the out, the movement of your body

allow your mind to simply move where it will, no judgement

If you are following along with the Chrysalis Facebook group or using a timer, take a few seconds to slowly open your eyes and transition into your day after you are finished.Those few extra seconds of transition allow your body and mind to peacefully move into your day.

I welcome questions and comments as this meditation gig is a journey for me as well.We can simply learn from each other.Next week, look for ideas in setting up a special place to meditate.